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 Acts 28  - Everywhere We Go - There is Always a Need

Saskatchewan Farm Boy (In Lynchburg, VA)

God brings us to unique ministry locations and situations.  There is always a need wherever we go, on business, on service trips, or on vacation.  In every case, there will be interactions with people and a chance for us to love the way God commands.

Notice in this entire book of Acts - and specifically in chapters 27 and 28 - how hard Paul worked and how he built relationships.  His relationships were built on mutual trust.  That is critical for us as Christians.  We must work hard and earn the trust of those we work with and those we serve.  Selfishly we are often more concerned about our own needs, being ‘right’ in an argument, taking authority, or arrogantly dismissing others rather than showing respect and appreciation, and helping others with zero intention of any gain for ourselves.  Jesus expects us to serve selflessly.  To freely give.  In reality, people don’t care about how much we know, how big our past trophies are, how well-written our resume is, or what a hero in the sports realm we were.  They really don’t.  But what they do care about is how sincere you are.  How authentic and how genuine your love for God and your love for others.  

We see Paul making a critical relationship with Julius, the non-believing captain of the Italian Regiment, at the beginning of this four-month disastrous journey to Rome.  Each man contributed with honesty and sincerity to the other’s well-being.  As a result of Paul’s relationship building with the officers and authorities of the ship, 276 people were saved.  Are you building relationships with people around you or just looking down your nose at them because their theology is off, they are too young, from an unimportant place or country, or of a role that you do not respect or perhaps even disdain?  I’ve had the same terrible mindset.  Let’s not be like that.  Love everyone.  Work hard to prove you have changed through the good things you do today.  You are not that important.  Trust me, neither am I.

If Paul can pick up sticks and work hard to heal people on the beach in Malta, if he can heal and serve those with fever and dysentery, then so can you.  So can I.  Look at that person you’ve never noticed before.  Speak to them today.  Smile.  Say something encouraging.  Let’s change our minds about them right now and know that they are loved by God.

Build relationships based on trust.  Serve without expecting anything in return.  Be kind.  Again, be really kind.  You have gifts from the Holy Spirit.  Use them for the body of Christ.  Heal, feed, lead, serve, plan, teach, and reach people for Jesus.

Thank you for this glorious day, Lord Jesus.  Amen.



Kari and Me (London)


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